New Kitten Checklist & Veterinary Care

Veterinary Care and Life Stages Checklist for New Kittens

What is cuter than a new kitten? The internet is full of memes so we know everybody loves kittens. Review this checklist to make sure you're ready for the new addition to you family.

Before Bringing Your Kitten Home

Schedule a Veterinary Visit

   - Arrange a comprehensive veterinary examination for your new kitten.

   - Discuss vaccinations, deworming, and a preventive care plan with your veterinarian.

Create a Safe Space

   - Set up a dedicated, safe space for your kitten with a cozy bed, litter box, food and water bowls, and a few toys.

   - Ensure the environment is free of hazards and provides a warm, comfortable atmosphere.

Nutritional Consultation

   - Consult with your veterinarian about the best kitten food for their age, breed, and health needs.

   - Establish a feeding schedule and portion sizes to promote healthy growth.

First Veterinary Visit (6-8 Weeks Old)

Vaccinations

   - Administer core vaccinations to protect against common diseases, such as feline panleukopenia, herpesvirus, and calicivirus.

   - Discuss the vaccination schedule for boosters.

Parasite Control

   - Begin deworming your kitten and discuss a regular preventive plan for intestinal parasites.

   - Start flea prevention if recommended by your veterinarian.

Microchipping and Identification

   - Discuss microchipping options with your veterinarian to ensure your kitten can be identified if lost.

   - Consider obtaining a collar with an ID tag.

Second Veterinary Visit (12 Weeks Old)

Additional Vaccinations

   - Administer additional boosters for core vaccinations.

   - Discuss the need for non-core vaccines based on your kitten's lifestyle, such as feline leukemia.

Spaying/Neutering Consultation

   - Discuss the optimal timing for spaying or neutering with your veterinarian.

   - Establish a plan for this essential procedure to prevent unwanted pregnancies and promote long-term health.

Nutritional Assessment

   - Reevaluate your kitten's diet and make any necessary adjustments based on growth and development.

Third Veterinary Visit (6 Months Old)

Final Vaccinations

    - Administer any final boosters required for core and non-core vaccinations.

    - Confirm that your kitten is fully protected against common diseases.

Dental Care Discussion

    - Discuss dental care practices, including toothbrushing and dental diets, to maintain good oral health.

Behavioral Consultation

    - Address any behavioral concerns or questions with your veterinarian.

    - Discuss enrichment activities and training options.

Ongoing Veterinary Care (Throughout Life)

Regular Check-ups

    - Schedule annual wellness check-ups to monitor your cat's overall health.

    - Discuss any changes in behavior, appetite, or activity levels with your veterinarian.

Parasite Prevention

    - Maintain a consistent schedule for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.

    - Stay vigilant for signs of parasites and consult with your veterinarian if needed.

Weight Management

    - Monitor your cat's weight and body condition regularly.

    - Adjust feeding portions or switch to a special diet if weight management is necessary.

Senior Wellness (7 Years and Older)

    - Schedule more frequent veterinary visits as your cat ages.

    - Discuss age-specific health screenings, including bloodwork and dental evaluations.

This checklist is a general guide, and individual kittens may have unique needs. Regular communication with your Family Pet Veterinary Clinic veterinarian is crucial for tailoring a care plan that best suits your kitten's health and well-being throughout their life stages.

Image credit: Photo by Kim Davies on Unsplash